Educators should stay informed about research news to effectively harness the brain’s potential in teaching and learning.
Focus and Attention:
Teach stress-reduction techniques to improve focus.
Create engaging lessons that boost motivation and release dopamine.
Minimize unnecessary noise during sessions.
Ensure adequate sleep, especially for those recovering from brain injuries.
Physical Activities:
Integrate music into lessons to enhance language learning and relaxation.
Use rhythm, movement, and dance to support learning and stress regulation.
Consider joint therapy sessions, combining physical movement with speech therapy for better outcomes.
Instructional Approaches:
Use repetition to reinforce academic, language, and motor skills.
Promote a growth mindset by teaching children that their brains can improve.
Avoid over-prompting; give just enough support to encourage independence.
Provide extended practice for new skills, to prevent skill regression.
Exercise: Inspirational imagination
Exploring imagery and self-compassion. Imagination encourages exploration, replacing anxiety with confidence, safety, and adventure. In this imagery, the child you once were is supported by a loving caregiver or the wise adult you’ve become. The adult takes joy in and trusts the child’s efforts to explore the world, knowing the child can always return to the caregiver’s loving embrace for reassurance and security.